Sensory Reader uses Apple's on-device Optical Character Recognition (OCR) framework to extract text from captured images. All processing happens on your device — no image data is ever sent to external servers.

Recognising text

  1. Capture or select an image containing text.
  2. Optionally crop the image to focus on the text area.
  3. Tap the Scan button. A loading indicator shows while text is being recognised.
  4. The Recognized Text panel appears with the extracted text.
Sensory Reader Recognized Text panel showing OCR output of a hotel fire instructions document, with green Play button and blue Share button at the bottom

Editing recognised text

The Recognized Text panel is editable. Tap anywhere in the text to position the cursor and correct any recognition errors before reading or sharing.

Handwriting recognition

Sensory Reader can also recognise handwritten text and convert it to digital text. Results are best with clear, well-spaced handwriting in good lighting.

Sensory Reader camera view capturing a handwritten note reading
Sensory Reader Recognized Text panel showing the handwritten note successfully converted to digital text
For best results: Ensure good lighting, hold the device steady, and position the camera so text fills the frame. Cropping to the text area before scanning also improves accuracy.